More Kitchen
Some top-of-the-line cooktops now have an optional built-in exhaust system. Again, these are a good choice for an island or a space where there are no upper cabinets to accommodate a concealed range hood. They operate in a similar fashion to pop-up downdraft systems, except that nothing pops up. Instead, they suck steam and odors down using powerful fans. The air then can be routed outside or cleaned and recirculated back into the room.
In the ceiling. Another option for above an island is to select a range hood or exhaust system that can be built in flush with the ceiling. These hoods are generally more expensive, as they need to be extremely powerful to suck up greasy air and odors from such a distance. The advantage is that the area above the island and the view to other parts of the home beyond the hood remain unobstructed.
Jenn-Air is well known for its integrated downdraft, which is a part of its horizontal cooking surface. Rather than having to add a separate appliance — like the range with the pop-up downdraft combination — you can get a range that comes with its ventilation built in. In my experience, homeowners tend to love or hate these appliances. Although they make for a clean look, the vent is right in your face, and you can see the grime quickly accumulating in the grille.
The flexible pop-up downdraft is one of my favorite vent options. These vents rise from the counter at the touch of a button. When the vent is resting, all that's visible is a 1½-inch-wide stainless steel bar. The guts are hidden within the base cabinet — it takes up about 12 inches in depth and most of the cabinet's height. However, it still leaves about 10 to 12 inches of shelf depth for pots and pans.
This image shows ventilation grilles installed into a dropped ceiling above the kitchen area. A liner or a small power pack combined with an inline or external blower would work for this look. If you want an even more streamlined design — maybe with long, narrow ventilation strips — work with an HVAC expert. But this application will definitely require a dropped ceiling.
Pool side... one, long, big window. Either no uppers... or high up like in this photo.
Range exhaust fan in lights
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